Vermeer Microtrenching Solutions for Utility Installation

What is microtrenching?

Microtrenching is a method used to install conduit by cutting a narrow, shallow trench — usually along the edge of an asphalt roadway.

Typical trench dimensions range from .75 in to 2.25 in wide (19.1 mm to 57.2 mm) and 8 in to 17 in deep (20.3 cm to 43.1 cm).

Mircrotrenching is widely used for deploying fiber-optic cables, telecommunications lines and low-voltage power utilities. It's especially popular in urban environments where minimizing surface disruption is critical.

During the cutting process, a vacuum system attached to the cutter wheel housing removes dry, dusty debris from the site, keeping the work area clean. After the conduit is placed in the trench, it is backfilled with a grout compound to secure it in place.

Urban-friendly

Jobsite cleanliness with vacuum spoil removal makes microtrenching a viable alternative for urban fiber deployment projects.

Reduces risk

Shallow depth placement helps avoid encounters with existing utilities.

More precision, less cost

Minimal cutting width boosts installation production and reduces cost in the amount of backfill grout needed.

What equipment is used in microtrenching?

The Vermeer core saw attachment is a mini skid steer attachment designed for easy maneuverability in tight urban jobsites. At the start of a microtrenching project, crews can daylight utilities using a core saw — a method that minimizes traffic disruption, reduces manual labor and helps preserve pavement integrity compared to traditional saw cutting. This step is critical for safe and efficient fiber-optic and other utility installations.

Vermeer microtrencher attachments, such as the MTR516, are engineered for fast, clean and cost-effective utility installation — especially in congested urban environments where precision matters. Their narrow cutting width and shallow depth help minimize surface disturbance, making them ideal for fiber-optic and small-conduit projects where maintaining road quality is essential.

Pair the microtrencher with a Vermeer vacuum excavator to remove spoil as you cut. This combination supports a cleaner microtrenching process, reduces post-cut cleanup and helps maintain jobsite safety and efficiency.

Complete the reinstatement phase with the Vermeer concrete reinstatement attachment. After conduit is placed in the trench, backfill with a grout compound to secure the installation and restore the surface — an important step in delivering a professional finish for fiber and utility projects.

What are the capabilities of the Vermeer microtrenchers?

Vermeer microtrenchers are designed to deliver fast, clean and cost-effective utility installations — especially in urban environments. Their narrow cutting width and shallow depth help minimize surface disruption, making them ideal for fiber optic and small conduit projects where preserving road integrity is critical. By cutting trenches typically .75 to 2.25 in (1.9 cm to 5.7 cm) wide and up to 17 in (43.1 cm) deep, Vermeer microtrenchers reduce the risk of utility strikes and allow for quicker, more efficient installations.

Paired with vacuum excavation systems, Vermeer microtrenchers enable clean spoil removal during cutting, keeping jobsites tidy and reducing cleanup time. Their compatibility with ride-on utility tractors and a variety of cutter wheels allows operators to adapt to different surfaces and trenching needs. Overall, Vermeer microtrenching solutions help contractors save time, lower costs and complete urban utility projects with minimal disruption.

What types of projects are best suited for microtrenching?

Microtrenching is ideal for urban utility installations, especially for fiber optic and small conduit projects. Its narrow, shallow cuts minimize surface disruption, making it a faster, more cost-effective alternative to traditional trenching methods — particularly in paved environments like sidewalks, roadways and curbs.

What surfaces can Vermeer microtrenchers cut through?

Vermeer microtrenchers are designed to cut through a variety of paved surfaces, including asphalt and concrete. Choosing the right cutting wheel based on the surface type helps maximize productivity and trench quality.

What factors should I consider when selecting microtrenching equipment?

Key considerations include the trench width and depth, surface type, spoil removal method and backfill material. Vermeer offers a range of cutter wheels, trenching attachments and vacuum systems to match your specific project needs.

Texas contractor sees cleaner, faster results with new Vermeer microtrencher

B Comm Constructors LLC saw clear advantages with the Vermeer microtrencher prototype they tested out on a jobsite in Austin, Texas. The attachment’s ability to trench up to 17 in (43.2 cm) deep — while maintaining speed at depth — helped simplify their work and keep the job moving efficiently. “It’s a great add-on to our equipment. My operator loves it,” said Joel Anzaldua, the microtrenching foreman for B Comm. “He likes it because it is much faster than the other one we usually use. It’s much stronger. It leaves the trench cleaner. It’s easier for everyone from the front end all the way to the back end.”

Utility tractors

Versatile, efficient and built for microtrenching. Help boost productivity and jobsite versatility with the Vermeer RTX550 and RTX750 utility tractors, which support a full range of attachments including those for microtrenching. Extend cutter wheel and tooth life while improving cutting efficiency with precise electronic ground drive control and auto creep. Stay informed with an integrated display that provides real-time performance and diagnostic data. Reduce the need for support equipment with a microtrencher configuration that includes solid rubber tires and a 1,500-lb (680.4-kg) reel carrier. Help maximize uptime with a simplified attachment manifold that speeds up changeovers. Adapt to a variety of jobsite needs with additional attachment options like a rockwheel, plow and trencher (center-mount or sliding-offset).

Microtrenching attachment

Achieve precise, consistent cuts — even in challenging conditions — with the MTR516 microtrencher attachment. Maintain optimal cutter wheel engagement and vacuum performance on uneven surfaces thanks to a single lever depth control that keeps the attachment flush with the ground. Experience less downtime with easy serviceability in the field on common wear parts and a durable attachment designed for durability. Cut close to curbs with an offset capability on the right up to 24 in (60.9 cm) off the center of the tractor. The MTR516 delivers a maximum cutting depth of 17 in (43.1 cm), making it a powerful and adaptable solution for urban trenching applications.

Core saw

Begin microtrenching projects with the Vermeer core saw attachment, a compact tool for potholing and exposing utilities on fiber‑optic and other utility installations. Designed for Vermeer mini loaders, this attachment offers simplified single‑lever controls and on-board water for dust suppression, helping crews work in tight urban environments. Its maneuverable design and clear line of sight to the cutting bit improve accuracy when daylighting utilities to reduce labor and preserve pavement integrity. Built for durability and ease of use, the core saw is an essential first step in a complete microtrenching process.

Reinstatement attachment

Complete microtrenching projects with the Vermeer reinstatement machine, a versatile tool for backfilling and reinstatement after conduit placement in fiber‑optic and other utility installations. Designed for Vermeer mini loaders, this attachment features a hydraulic gate for controlled material flow and an adjustable trench filler to keep grout in the trench and reduce waste. Its ability to handle mortar, grout and concrete — whether mixing from bags or loading from a truck — gives crews flexibility on the jobsite. Built for durability and ease of use, the reinstatement machine helps deliver a clean, efficient finish to every microtrenching job.

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